India Approves $9 Billion in Military Modernization Projects
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India’s defence ministry on Thursday granted preliminary approval for a sweeping set of military modernization projects totaling approximately Rs 79,000 crore ($9 billion), signaling a significant push to bolster the nation’s defense capabilities. The projects encompass a diverse range of equipment, from amphibious warfare ships and swarm drones to advanced missile systems, reflecting India’s evolving security priorities.
The most substantial component of this modernization drive is the planned construction of four large amphibious warfare ships, also known as Landing Platform Docks (LPDs), at a cost of Rs 33,000 crore. These vessels, each with a displacement exceeding 20,000 tonnes, will be built at an Indian shipyard selected through a competitive bidding process. “The LPDs will help the Navy undertake amphibious operations along with Army and IAF as well peacekeeping and disaster relief missions,” a senior official stated.
Strengthening Air Defense with S-400 Missile Replenishment
Another key project involves the acquisition of a large quantity of surface-to-air missiles for the Russian-made S-400 Triumf air defense systems, valued at over Rs 10,000 crore. This order aims to both replenish existing stockpiles and build reserves for the S-400, which has been lauded for its performance in recent conflicts. According to an official, the S-400 systems proved to be a “game-changer” during cross-border hostilities with Pakistan in May, with the Indian Air Force (IAF) claiming to have shot down “at least five high-tech Pakistani fighters in the F-16 and JF-17-class” and an electronic intelligence (ELINT) or airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft during Operation Sindoor. Air Chief Marshal A P Singh recently reported the S-400 achieved the “longest kill ever achieved” at a distance of 314-km.
The IAF is slated to receive the final two of five S-400 squadrons next year, following delays attributed to the Russia-Ukraine war. With Russian President Vladimir Putin scheduled to visit India in early December, discussions are underway to procure at least three additional S-400 squadrons, as previously reported.
Embracing Future Warfare: Swarm Drone Technology
India is also investing heavily in emerging technologies, with a Rs 5,500 crore acquisition of swarm drones – designated “collaborative long-range target saturation and destruction systems.” These drones, boasting a range exceeding 1,000 km, will be developed under the ‘Make-II’ category, where industry-funded prototype development is encouraged. “These systems will be capable of autonomous take-off, landing, navigating, detecting and delivering payload in the target areas like enemy airfields,” an official explained.
Enhancing Army Capabilities
The defense ministry also approved the procurement of 107 Nag Mark-2 missile (tracked) systems for the Army, at a cost of around Rs 2,500 crore. Additionally, approvals were granted for ground-based mobile electronic intelligence (GBMES) systems and high-mobility vehicles (HMVs) equipped with cranes. “The NAMIS (tracked) will enhance the Army’s capability of neutralizing enemy tanks, combat vehicles, bunkers and other field fortifications,” an official noted. “GBMES will provide round-the-clock electronic intelligence of enemy emitters, and HMVs will significantly improve logistical support in diverse geographical terrains.”
Beyond the LPDs, the Navy will also receive 30mm surface guns for low-intensity maritime operations and anti-piracy efforts, costing Rs 1,200 crore. Further acquisitions include advanced lightweight torpedoes for anti-submarine warfare, electro-optical infrared search and track systems, and smart ammunition for 76mm super rapid gun mounts on warships, collectively enhancing the Navy’s operational readiness and versatility.
These approvals represent a substantial commitment to modernizing India’s armed forces and underscore the nation’s determination to maintain a robust defense posture in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.
